The problem with background checks

Toni Pacini, Las Vegas

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 | 2 a.m.

Politicians act as if requiring background checks would solve America’s problems, but they are already required. I’ve had four background checks. Two years ago, I attended expensive classes, visited “legal” gun shops, paid more than $600 for my gun, filled out extensive paperwork, provided required identification and had a background check run on me.

Next, I attended an expensive, eight-hour class to qualify for a concealed weapons permit and paid to use a local range to practice. After I passed my proficiency test, I made an appointment at the local police department. They ran a second background check on me.

Then, due to an error by the police department in California where I applied, I had to go to the sheriff’s department, reapply and go through a third background check — plus pay more money.

I just moved to Las Vegas, and I went straight to Metro Police and registered my gun, as required. I completed an expensive 12-hour class to qualify in Nevada and Utah. I went back to Metro and filed my application and had my fourth background check. Now I must wait up to four months for my permit to carry.

I will soon be legally allowed to carry again, but I must be cautious.

Nevada has no law to protect the law-abiding citizen. If I shoot a criminal breaking into my home, I may be arrested and possibly sued by his family. Criminals do it cheap and easy. Good citizens jump through many hoops.